In Kindergarten, students are assessed in literacy using the PALS and in math using the AMC.

In 1st grade, students are assessed in literacy using the PALS and in math using the AMC.

In 2nd grade, students are assessed in literacy using the PALS and in literacy and math using the MAP.

In 3rd grade, students are assessed in literacy using the PALS and in literacy and math using the MAP and VA Growth Assessment.

In 4th grade, students are assessed in literacy and math using the MAP and VA Growth Assessment.

In 5th grade, students are assessed in literacy and math using the MAP and VA Growth Assessment.

All of these assessments allow us to determine how to best provide instruction including enrichment and intervention for our Gators. It also allows us to see where our Gators are compared to the beginning of the year and allows us to compare to Spring 2023 scores to ensure growth. There is no studying to be done or anything needed to "prep for" these assessments.

If you have any questions about these assessments, please reach out to your classroom teacher or our Reading and Math Specialists.

Links with more information:

PALS - https://palsresource.info/parents/

AMC - https://www.assessingmathconcepts.com/

MAP - https://www.nwea.org/the-map-suite/family-toolkit/

VA Growth Assessment - https://www.doe.virginia.gov/testing/test_administration/growth-assessment/index.shtml

The counseling department would like to introduce Ms. Gwen Williams to our Gator community! Ms. Williams is joining us as a part-time counselor, and will be at GES on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and every other Friday. Ms. Williams will be assisting our full-time counselors across all grade levels. We are very excited to have her join the Gator family!

"Hello and thank you for having me as your new counselor at Garrisonville Elementary. I am a recent graduate of Norfolk State University with a Master’s Degree in Urban Education with a specialization in school counseling. I also hold a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Bachelor’s in Social Work. My background and experience extends over 20 years. My motto is: “Good, better, best: never let it rest; until your good becomes your better, and your better becomes your best!”

Community Resource Spotlight: Central Rappahannock Regional Library

• Our yearly Kindergarten Library Card Campaign is a grand opportunity to introduce your child to the library. For a limited time, we're offering each kindergartener who visits one of our branches a free book - and we encourage them to get their very own library cards to begin their reading adventures!”

• We have some special programs in our branches and online this month. Sensory Time returns to Howell Branch, an opportunity for youth with developmental challenges to enjoy songs, stories, and activities. On 1/14, adults can come to Fredericksburg Branch for our Mental and Brain Health Workshop to develop a greater understanding of anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Adults and teens with disabilities can spend “Time with a Therapy Dog,” either online or in person. Younger students can join the pups to practice their reading at “Paws for Reading” sessions, also online or in person.

• HelpNow: Live Online Tutoring for All Ages